Secretary of State Michael G. Adams signed into law a regulation making it easier for the business and legal communities to perform notarizations remotely, a critical need for basic business functions.

Adams said, “During the last two months, my office has fielded hundreds of calls asking for help with notarizing documents, typically required in-person but hard to achieve given the current need for social distancing. We’re pleased to offer a solution that will help Kentucky’s job creators survive and thrive.”

Michael G. Adams

Now, the Secretary of State has improved an existing regulation by formalizing a notarization procedure he previously suggested through informal guidance — whereby a notary may notarize a document for a remotely located individual by a combination of pen and paper, video-conferencing, scanners, email, photo messaging, printers, copiers, regular mail, or courier service.

The process provided by the Secretary of State is free of charge and relatively simple. Also, unlike recent executive orders and related coronavirus legislation, this regulation will not expire but will remain available as an industry practice going forward.

“Knowing the challenges businesses face – especially now – as Kentucky’s chief business officer I’m here to help,” he said.